The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has reportedly received a petition calling for an investigation into President John Dramani Mahama over the takeover of the Damang Mine by his brother, Ibrahim Mahama’s company E&P.
According to reports, the petition was filed by a private citizen, Emmanuel Senyo Amekplenu, who believes there may have been a conflict of interest in the process that led to Ibrahim Mahama’s reported acquisition of the mine.
The petitioner is asking CHRAJ to use its constitutional powers under Article 218(a) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution to investigate the matter.
He also cited Article 284, which requires public officials to avoid situations where their personal interests may conflict with their official duties.
In the petition, Amekplenu argued that the President may have had influence over the approval process because Cabinet is believed to have approved the transaction, and Cabinet meetings are chaired by the President.
He claimed that this raises concerns because the beneficiary of the deal is the President’s biological brother.
The petition further referred to comments allegedly made by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga in February 2025, where he reportedly stated that Cabinet decisions are ultimately taken by the President based on advice from ministers.
Amekplenu also listed other developments he believes strengthen concerns about a possible conflict of interest.
Among them is the reported funding of a medical trip for Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang by Ibrahim Mahama.
The petitioner additionally questioned the use of a private jet allegedly owned by Ibrahim Mahama for trips by the President and Vice President.
He wants investigators to determine whether any public benefits, state concessions, or reciprocal arrangements were connected to the use of the aircraft.
As part of the petition, CHRAJ has been asked to carry out a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the Damang Mine takeover.
The petitioner also wants the commission to review Cabinet documents, declarations of interest, meeting records, and any correspondence related to the transaction.
Furthermore, the petition calls on CHRAJ to determine whether any constitutional or ethical violations occurred and to recommend sanctions or corrective measures if wrongdoing is established.
